One frequently asked question we’re asked, well, frequently, is how the chimpanzees cope with snow. Snow is not a part of wild chimpanzees’ environment, to be clear.
However, save for maybe a few months as infants for Negra, Annie, and perhaps Jody, the seven chimpanzees here know nothing about the life and environment of wild chimpanzees. They grew up, for the most part, indoors. And for the last decade (at least) before coming to the sanctuary, they didn’t even have a window to look out.
So, to answer the question about how they cope with snow, I’d say they’ve adapted very well! As a rule, chimpanzees generally don’t like to get their feet wet. However, if the snow is not deep, the chimpanzees at CSNW go right outside, explore, and often collect some of the wintry treat to enjoy back in the greenhouse.
The visual of chimpanzees in snow is still sometimes strange; but they are, after all, honorary citizens of Cle Elum: Heart of the Cascades.
After ten years, a trek in the snow is probably just as normal as walking through the tall pasture grass and planted bamboo in the spring and summer.
And they look darn good against a backdrop of white.
Speaking of snow season, thank you to everyone who has donated so far in our year-end fundraising! I’ll have some more updates about that soon. I’ve been overwhelmed by all of the generosity from so many people. It really does a heart good to have the support of inspiring, amazing, and caring folks who are rooting for the Bring Them Home Expansion to continue as quickly as possible so we can provide a home for more chimpanzees!
Did you know that artist and friend of the chimpanzees Maragaret H. Parkinson has a special offer of a painting to a lucky person who donates $1,000?! Check out the original 12×12″ oil painting “Rainbow Ele” ©️ 2018 below and get in touch (diana@ChimpsNW.org) if you would like to take advantage of this truly amazing gift!
While I know chimpanzees in the their natural habitat never find themselves foraging in the snow I gotta admit, I never think twice seeing the Cle Elum Seven in powder. I get it, they may not be fans of snow, but like me, they deal with it and sometimes even enjoy it. Just seeing them outside, exploring, is delightful no matter the season or weather.
And to Maragaret Parkinson, just so you know I am a fan from afar. Love your work. Your painting of Negra with her face towards the glow of the yellow sunshine is my all time favorite. I am a proud owner of a reproduction of this image and it has a place of honor in my office where I can bask in its glow everyday.
Thank you for your kind words Kathleen. ?. Our chimpanzees are some of my best friends. They are truly wonderful! Whatever we can do to help them is important. Thank you for your support.
You are absolutely right: the chimpanzees look beautiful in the snow! The look on Jody’s face says it all.